Monday, March 7, 2011

Parisian Townhouses

Back in the day, what was considered Paris was just the little strip of island that we now call Ile Saint Louis. Everything else that surrounds it was considered the countryside. As Paris grew over the decades and centuries, the 20 arrondissements were formed. This is why today we find townhouses or even villas and bungalows in Paris itself.

They are not common, but can be found in the 20th, 13th, and 18th arrondissements. In the "Parisian villages" you will find old architectural structures usually made from stone, little winded alleys and cobblestone streets. Each townhouse or villa usually comes with a private garage and a garden. What used to be popular and middle class neighborhoods, these areas are now highly prized by the bourgeoisie who flee from what has become very touristic areas to find tranquility and peace in the middle of the city.

I don't suggest tour groups coming here and snapping mass photos, it remains private homes after all. But a little ballad off the beaten path with a loved one won't bother anyone..

Photos by Yamil Gonzalez

2 comments:

  1. Do you know exactly where those pictures were taken?

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    1. Yes, these pictures were taken in the 20th arrondissement, I believed it is called La Campagne à Paris

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